Martha Garner Chandler - spry2

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Martha Garner Chandler of Athens, AL, died Wednesday, March 6, 2024, after an extended illness. The family will receive friends from 1:30-3:30 PM, Sunday, March 10 at Spry Funeral Home. The funeral, with Odis Duncan officiating, will be held at 3:30 PM, immediately following visitation at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Dement Cemetery.

Survivors include her husband, Donald Wade Chandler of Athens; son Grant Garner Chandler and wife Allison of Madison, AL; daughter Morgan Chandler Yohn and husband Brandon of Loxley, AL; four grandchildren; many nephews and nieces; and many friends. Martha was preceded in death by her brother, Douglas Garner.

Martha was born July 19, 1948, in Athens, AL, to Alfred and Bertha “Momma Bert” Garner. After graduating from Athens College, where she was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity for Women, she served as an English/Spanish teacher for 37 years, most of those at Tanner High School.  She was a devoted member of Mt. Carmel Church of Christ where 4 generations of her family have worshipped.  

After some years of pestering Grant and Morgan when she would be a grandmother, Motty’s greatest joy became her grandchildren:  Natalie, Lincoln, Chandler, and Harrison.

Martha spent her life in service through educating her students (sometimes against their will), directing plays, volunteering with various charities, caring for the sick and widows of her Church family, becoming caregiver for her aging mother, and being a steadfast beacon for her husband, children, and friends.

“She seemed to know that if she swayed, the family shook. And if she really deeply wavered or despaired, the family would fall…” -The Grapes of Wrath

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Carmel Church of Christ, 7805 U.S. 72 West, Athens, AL, 35611; the Houston Memorial Library Foundation, P.O. Box 1650, Athens, AL 35612; or the TIE Foundation, P.O. Box 770, Athens, AL, 35612

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7 comments


Christie Wilder
2024-03-08 03:19:43
I am so saddened by the loss of Mrs. Chandler. She was a wonderful teacher, and demonstrated excellence in all her accomplishments. My condolences to the family, and may God grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Patty Marsh
2024-03-08 06:45:07
Love & Prayers during this difficult time and the days ahead. Martha’s Family is truly a legacy of her devotion. She was Loved & Respected by many. She had a great influence on her students and friends - never to be forgotten.
ronald glen yohn
2024-03-08 16:52:12
Sorry to hear of the loss 0f such a sweet lady, a dear mother, and loved grandmother. My heart goes out to all her family. Another Angel has received her wings.
Angie Chandler
2024-03-09 19:15:43
I remember your sweet Martha as a beautiful soul, and wish you guys comfort and love from God and through family and friends.
Melinda King
2024-03-09 22:38:00
Love and prayers for all those left behind by Martha. May we always cherish the memories made and strive to keep her alive by our example. She was a beautiful woman of God and it showed in many ways. God’s blessings always!
Gregory Haraway
2024-03-11 01:39:33
Sorry for your loss Donald.
Del&Cindy Rogers
2024-03-15 19:14:23
We are so sorry to hear about Mrs. Chandler’s passing. Our prayers are with her family at this time. We were both blessed to be her students and have many wonderful memories. She loved her family and was passionate about teaching us. Her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, students, and as a loving teacher at Tanner High School.
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